This collection of posts features in-depth perspectives about heroes and villains and the people who love them. These articles represent the professional and personal opinions of Dr. Andrea Letamendi, a Clinical Psychologist, scientist, and convention speaker.

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The Arkham Sessions, Ep. 70: “House and Garden”

October 9th, 2015 by Andrea

Are we, as humans, all capable of blossoming into our “better selves?” Can individuals with seedy pasts actually reform? If they’re determined enough, can someone with a criminal background turn over a new leaf? Of course, we’re talking about Poison Ivy this week! In this episode of The Arkham Sessions, we explore the episode where Poison Ivy puts her shears away and transitions into a “normal life,” complete with a husband, two kids, and house in the suburbs of Gotham City. But Batman is not convinced. Given the recent thefts and a gruesome, green plant-like monster being spotted around town, all signs seem to point toward Ivy. So Batman takes a closer look at the family she’s “cultivated.” The twist at the end of this story is rather disturbing!

In light of Poison Ivy’s potential “recovery,” we explain what rehabilitation might look like, whether it’s predictable or even possible. Our discussion includes a spotlight on the self-fulfilling prophecy, the phenomenon of making a prediction come true simply by believing in it. Listen to the audio below for the full analysis of this thorny topic!

The Arkham Sessions is a podcast dedicated to the psychology of the show, Batman: The Animated Series. Have psychology related questions about Batman? Write to us via twitter @ArkhamSessions or on Facebook.Or visit our official website.

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